PFAS-free Fasteners | PEM
Reduce PFAS concerns with PEM® Self Clinching Fasteners
In today’s manufacturing landscape, environmental and regulatory concerns are at the forefront of decision-making. One significant issue is the growing scrutiny of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used in coatings and treatments due to their resistance to heat, water, and oil, and may even be used in applications that you own, without explicit disclaimers attached. As industries face increasing restrictions and strive for more sustainable alternatives, PEM® Self-Clinching Fasteners provide an innovative solution that helps reduce PFAS-related concerns.
Understanding the PFAS Challenge
PFAS compounds have been widely used in a plethora of industrial applications, including common fastener coatings, to enhance corrosion resistance and durability. However, due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks, regulatory bodies worldwide are imposing stricter limitations on their usage. Companies across various sectors, from automotive to electronics, have found themselves in possession of PFAS compounds, and are seeking ways to mitigate PFAS exposure while maintaining product performance and reliability.
How PEM® Self-Clinching Fasteners Help
PEM® offers a range of self-clinching fasteners that eliminate or significantly reduce the need for PFAS-based coatings without compromising durability and corrosion resistance. Here’s how:
- Innovative Coatings and Materials – PEM® fasteners leverage advanced materials and finishes that provide the necessary performance characteristics without relying on PFAS-based treatments.
- Sustainable Manufacturing – By choosing PFAS-free fasteners, manufacturers align with global sustainability initiatives, ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations.
- Reliable Performance – Designed for permanent installation in thin sheet metal, PEM® self-clinching fasteners offer superior retention, high torque-out resistance, and long-lasting durability without requiring additional chemical treatments.
- Regulatory Compliance – Transitioning to PFAS-free fastening solutions helps companies stay ahead of industry regulations and avoid potential liabilities linked to PFAS usage.
Are Your Patched Screws a Hidden Risk? Switch to PFAS-Free PEM® Locknuts!
If you're currently using patched screws, there’s a chance they might contain PFAS chemicals. While some patched screws are safe, many suppliers can't provide a clear PFAS statement, leaving you at risk of unintentional exposure.
By switching to our PFAS-free PEM® Locknuts, you can eliminate this uncertainty. Our Locknuts offer a reliable, effective solution that completely replaces the need for potentially at-risk patched screws.
Industries Benefiting from PFAS-Free Fasteners
As global industries pivot towards sustainable manufacturing, several sectors can particularly benefit from PEM® Self-Clinching Fasteners, including:
- Automotive – Reducing reliance on PFAS coatings while maintaining high-performance fastening solutions.
- Electronics – Ensuring reliability in consumer devices and industrial equipment without PFAS-related risks.
- Aerospace – Meeting stringent environmental and performance standards with alternative fastening solutions.
- Medical Devices – Aligning with health and safety standards by eliminating potentially harmful substances from production.
A Future Without PFAS
As the push for PFAS-free manufacturing gains momentum, PEM® Self-Clinching Fasteners provide a proactive, compliant, and effective alternative solution for manufacturers worldwide. All of our standard catalog parts are considered PFAS-free. By integrating these fasteners into your designs, you can enhance product safety, sustainability, and long-term regulatory compliance while maintaining the high performance your applications demand.
Use our free PEMedge® Services to learn and gain the confidence to make the switch from patched screws to PFAS-free PEM® self clinching Locknuts.
APPLICATION ENGINEERING
- Application Review
- Custom Design/Product Development
- Customer Drawings
- Catalog Samples
- 3D Models
- Prototype Development Center
TESTING SERVICE
- FEA Analysis
- Mechanical Testing
- Tensile and Compression Strength
- Micro Hardness
- Fastener Joint Cross-Sectioning
- Corrosion and Plating Testing
TEARDOWN SERVICE
- Complete Product Disassembly
- Assembly Structure Assessment
- Identify Alternative Fastening Solutions
- Alternative Fastener Replacement/Testing
- Teardown Report
- Identify Efficiencies/Implementation Plan
FASTENERCLASS® MASTER CLASS
- Free Customized Training Sessions from Global Experts
- Live, Web-based, and Pre-recorded Training Options Available
Standard Classes Include: - Theory, Best Practices, Application Exploration
- Intro to Self-Clinch Theory
- Proper Fasteners for Stainless Steel Panels
- Surface Mount Fastener Technology (SMT) vs. Broach